RCMP members on boat patrol credited with saving lives

RCMP members on a patrol in Pictou Harbour yesterday were credited with quick action after an incident on the water could have resulted in tragedy.

On July 6, during the Boat Races at the Pictou Lobster Carnival, a modified racing boat took on water while traveling at a high rate of speed. Both the driver and passenger were ejected from the boat into the water. The boat, now empty, with its throttle stuck continued out of control in harbour amongst the many pleasure craft and fishing boats. A nearby fishing boat picked up the occupants from the racing boat.

RCMP members on a patrol vessel in the immediate area located the owner of the racing boat and took him aboard the RCMP vessel. As the RCMP vessel maneuvered alongside the out of control boat that was circling in the harbour, the owner of the boat was able to board the racing boat and take control of it once again.

A 58-year-old passenger from Three Brooks was transported by EHS to hospital with non-life threatening injuries and was later released. The driver, a 48-year-old man, did not require medical attention.

The quick action of members prevented any further injury, property damage or loss of life.

"This was the most amazing thing I had ever seen," he said. "If not for the action taken this could have resulted in far more tragic consequences and these heroic efforts resulted in lives being saved."

No charges will be laid.

Given the large number of spectators in the area at the time, Pictou County District RCMP are asking anyone who may have captured the incident on video to contact the detachment at 755-4141.